With messages calling for the preservation of historical memory, recognition of the sacrifices of 1974, and the continuation of the struggle for a free and reunified Cyprus, the Annual National and Religious Memorial Service for those who fell during the coup and the heroes of the Turkish invasion was held the Annual National-Religious Memorial Service for those who fell during the coup and the heroes of the Turkish invasion, as well as a prayer for the missing.

In his commemorative address, the Mayor of Paralimni–Deryneia, George Nikoletos, emphasized that the heroes’ sacrifice does not belong solely to the past, but constitutes a timeless legacy for future generations, while he affirmed that the struggle to determine the fate of the missing persons and to achieve a Cyprus free from occupation continues.

The Divine Liturgy, the Memorial Service, and the Prayer Service were presided over by Metropolitan Vasilios of Constantia and Famagusta. The government was represented by Minister of Justice and Public Order Costas Fytiris, while the commemorative address was delivered by the Mayor of Paralimni – Deryneia, George Nikoletos. The memorial service was co-organized by the Holy Metropolis of Constantia and Famagusta and the Municipality of Paralimni–Deryneia. 

Following the conclusion of the ceremony, a Trisagio was performed, followed by the laying of wreaths at the Heroes’ Monument.

In his commemorative address, Mr. Nikoletos stated that today is a day of honor, gratitude, and national responsibility toward the fallen and the missing, noting that, 52 years after the tragedy of 1974, the memory remains alive because the heroes’ sacrifice concerns not only the past, but also the present and future of Cyprus.

The mayor described the coup and the Turkish invasion as a national tragedy that left behind the dead, the missing, refugees, and a divided homeland, emphasizing that the heroes of Paralimni answered their country’s call with self-sacrifice, placing duty above their personal lives.

He made special mention of the fifteen fallen soldiers and those missing from Paralimni, with a special mention of Brigadier General Tasos Markou, whom he described as a model officer and leader who remained faithful to his duty until the very end.

Tassos Isaac and Solomos Solomou also featured prominently in his speech; he presented them as worthy successors in the same struggle for freedom, noting that the Municipality has already erected a monument in their honor so that younger generations may understand the price of freedom and resistance against the occupation.

Mr. Nikoletos also referred to the Municipality’s initiatives to preserve historical memory, such as the erection of a monument to the Genocide of the Greeks of Pontus, as well as plans to create a new, large monument next to the statue of Lieutenant General Tassos Markos, dedicated to the heroes of Paralimni.

In closing, he assured that the Municipality will continue to support every effort to determine the fate of the missing persons and will work toward a free and reunified Cyprus, free from occupation, emphasizing that the sacrifice of the heroes should not be limited to commemorative events but should constitute a daily way of life and a sense of responsibility toward future generations.

Source: CNA